Sporting CP has been in turmoil since manager Ruben Amorim left for Manchester United on November 11. Amorim, who led the club to two Primeira Liga titles in four years, departed after a 11-game winning streak, leaving the team struggling. On Christmas Day, Sporting fired his replacement João Pereira after just eight games and appointed Rui Borges, the manager of Vitoria.
When Amorim left, Sporting were top of the league, but they now find themselves one point behind Benfica in second place. They were third in their UEFA Champions League group but have dropped to 17th. To make matters worse, the January transfer window will open, and top European clubs will be eyeing some of Sporting’s star players. Manchester United is leading the charge, but sources say they have limited funds unless they sell players like Marcus Rashford.
Among the players attracting interest is striker Viktor Gyökeres, who has a release clause of €100 million. However, he’s not the only player being scouted. Here’s a look at some of Sporting’s other top talents:
Geny Catamo, 23, Wing-back / Winger
Catamo, primarily a winger, has impressed with his ball-carrying ability and dribbling skills. Despite being left-footed, he can play on either flank, making him a versatile option. His defensive game needs work, but he has shown promise with his attacking runs. With his pace and ability to beat defenders, he’s drawing attention from top clubs, including Manchester United, who are looking for a wing-back in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system.
Geovany Quenda, 17, Winger / Wing-back
A standout in Sporting’s youth ranks, Quenda made his first-team debut under Amorim this season. A quick and dynamic winger, he’s already shown his potential in an unfamiliar wing-back role. Though still learning defensively, his speed and dribbling make him a constant threat on the ball. With his ability to create chances (averaging 4.5 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes), he’s attracting interest from various top clubs.
Ousmane Diomande, 21, Centre-back
One of the world’s most promising young defenders, Diomande has been a key player for Sporting since his arrival two years ago. At 6-foot-3, he’s a physical presence in the air and on the ground, but his real strength lies in carrying the ball out of defense. Though he’s had occasional lapses in concentration, Diomande has been exceptional for Sporting, and his potential has top clubs eyeing him as a future star.
Morten Hjulmand, 25, Defensive midfielder
After losing Manuel Ugarte to Paris Saint-Germain, Sporting replaced him with Denmark international Hjulmand from Lecce for €19.5 million. Hjulmand is a more measured player than Ugarte but excels in controlling possession and distributing the ball. His leadership qualities have made him the captain of Sporting, and he’s been a key player in their midfield. Any top club looking for a solid defensive midfielder should have Hjulmand on their radar.
Gonçalo Inácio, 23, Centre-back
While Diomande and Benfica’s António Silva often steal the spotlight, Inácio is quietly establishing himself as one of the most reliable centre-backs in Portugal. With over 150 first-team appearances, the left-footed defender is known for his calmness, excellent passing range, and tactical intelligence. He’s also capable of carrying the ball out of defense and is a threat on set pieces, making him a highly coveted player for top clubs.